Being a tourist and roaming foreign streets, visiting markets and taking in the sights is a wonderful way to relax on vacation. We all know too well the many scams that are already out there, but the professional scammers seem to be getting even more crafty. On a recent trip to a large city, our daughter encountered yet another breed. Far from the street pickpockets, drivers quoting you a price and then raising the price when at your destination who will then not release you luggage from the trunk until you pay, or even the scammers who will place items on you and demand payment because it is now in your possession. Hers was an encounter via telephone. Staying in a well known popular hotel, she received a call from the front desk the morning following her check-in. It was stated that “Front Desk” was calling and that their computers system had gone down and could she verify her information. Unfortunately, she did and continued on her ventures. Luckily her banking institute caught the fraudulent action and placed a call to her notifying her that her card had been compromised. It was not the “Front Desk” that placed the call, but an out of state scammer who them proceeded to use her card. Hind sight - take the time and go down and personally speak to the front desk. Being on an out-of-state vacation herself, she was able to go to her banking institute and discuss the situation. Again, unfortunately being out of state, they were not able to issue her a temporary card and needed to close her account. Lesson learned? Yes! If you are traveling to a foreign country, remember to call you banking institute and your credit cards. Some companies do not allow international card transactions unless previously notified - make sure you check with yours! There are many scams such as the “Free” drink. Here you are invited to have a free drink with someone who has picked you out. After a few drinks, a large bill, the scammer has suddenly disappeared leaving you and the bill. Make sure you carry small bills and enough change - especially when purchasing items and for transportaion. Many scammers will state they don’t have change and will not refund your purchase leaving you with more money spent than necessary. While speaking of money, beware of “Fake Police”. Yes, hard to believe, but these scammers will show you fake badges and demand to see your identification often stating they are searching for illegal contraband. When you take out your wallet, they too will take your wallet. In this situation, be on the lookout for plain clothed accomplices. Stay in well lit areas and even take down their badge number to verify with the local police that they are legitimate before doing anything. Scammers are not just adults dropping gold rings in front of you and claiming it must be yours, but unfortunately, young children are often part of this circle. Children often are quick and distract us, but know they are not working along. Beware of using the ATM, and be wary when you have to push past a group. These are situations where you won’t realize what happened until it’s too late. If you are in a situation and become uncomfortable, walk away quickly and be stern with your “NO’S”. Many times the scammers don’t want attention drawn to them and this may divert them for you to quickly exit. Do not let anyone place anything on you or have you hold something - many times these are part of a scam too. Even though you are on vacation and you are a tourist; try not to look like one. Before your trip make yourself familiar with your destination and read reviews from others. This is only the tip of the iceberg. Here are some interesting posted scams that may keep your red flag flying from Rick Steves.

Wherever you go, be alert and be safe and may all your travels be only wonderful memories!

Understanding your travel plan choices while traveling can be confusing. From European Plans to Exclusive Plans, your vacation can be catered to you every need depending on options available at your location. Some plans listed below explain a few popular plans to many hotels and resorts offer.European Plan: Lodging cost only (no food or drink included).Continental Plan: Your accommodations with breakfast which may consist of any or all: juices, coffee, tea, and bread. It may, but doesn’t necessarily include: cereals, fruits, egg dishes, waffles and pancakes to name a few. Again, it depends on your location and services. The Continental Plan is usually self-service but may offer waiter services to refill drinks. Full-board and American Plan: In addition to your accommodations , you may receive three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) with drinks not included.Half-board and Modified American Plan: Accommodations, breakfast, one main meal and again with drinks not included.All-Inclusive: Almost always includes: Accommodations, meals, snacks, soft drinks, tea, coffee, beer and non-branded spirits (keep in mind this may only apply to specific restaurants/bars at your resort). When looking at all-inclusive remember that there also may be certain time limitations to your “free” drinks and food. This may also include all fees to on-site entertainments such as the pool, club house, tennis, gym and etc..Exclusive (All-Inclusive Plus), Super-Inclusive, Ultra-Inclusive: Keep in mind that depending on your location these options may differ: Accommodations, food, gourmet dining, unlimited ala carte dining, soft drinks, coffee, tea, wine, premium drinks, snacks, tips, resort entertainment, water sports, land sports, airport transfers, taxes, gratuities, turn down service, welcome basket, express check-in and check-out, and upgraded room amenities.Bottom line ~ make sure you read all the fine print in all your travel agreements to ensure your travels are exactly as you expected. Each resort differs in their offerings and you need to be sure of what you are purchasing prior to your vacation or better yet, contact http://www.twigtravel.com/questionnaire--order.html to help plan your perfect getaway.

One less cord and so easy to carry ~ I love this MiniDock from Blue Lounge. With three different adapter types this MiniDock is great for charging your iPod or iPhone with a US version, a UK version, and a EU version. Small enough to carry anywhere, this is sure to be on everyones list ~ especially with a price under $20.00!

Those of us that own a furry four legged friend have now led the way in statistics and travel. As of this year, 93% of dog owners plan on taking their pet on vacation with them. Before you let Fido jump in and take to the road with you, be sure to look over some safety precautions to ensure their trip is just as enjoyable as yours.Prior to your trip make sure of the following:Have your pet identification tag complete with the animals name, your name and cell phone number. If possible, also place your home number or another contact number.Have a first aid kit for you pet and keep it with you incase of injury.Visit your veterinarian and make sure you are current on all shots and tags. Get a copy of proof to carry with you of all vaccines in the case that you need to board your pet. Make sure your pet is in good health and consider a recent health certificate to carry with you as you may need if traveling to Canada or Mexico.Packing for you pet - remember to bring enough food and water along with any needed medicines. I love this set from http://www.fetchdog.com/pet-supplies/dogcartravel/traveldogbowls/ruff-rations/00374 and use our travel bowls even when we just visit the park. Pack: Bowls, leashes, collars, a familiar blanket, towel, toys/chew toys, treats, plastic bags/clean-up supplies, a dog brush, crate, and any other comforts your pet may need such as dog booties if venturing to a hot or cold region or a swim vest if going on a water trip. Before you hit the road, know your route and some pet friendly stops. While traveling, keep you dog safely contained in either a safety harness or in the enclosed back area. Purchase your supplies at numerous stores and sites such as Pet Street Mall http://www.petstreetmall.com/Travel-&-Outdoors/458.html, In The Company of Dogs http://www.inthecompanyofdogs.com/ShopCategory3.aspx?id=17,473&dispRow=473, or http://www.fetchdog.com/pet-supplies/dogcartravel/alldogcar-travelsupplies, all of which have an excellent selection of travel gear for your dog amongst many other selections.Be sure to stop every 2-3 hours and allow them some exercise and relief along with water and their food if at their scheduled time . . . A little treat for their great behavior is always welcomed! Never leave your pet in a hot vehicle!!! Not only can this be dangerous and deadly, but the extreme heat can also cause heat stroke and/or brain damage. Dog Friendly http://dogfriendly.com/dognews/?p=1272 has posted their Top 10 Dog-Friendly Cities to visit in the United States. With some controversy, the top ten were chosen with some cities excluded due to breed restrictive laws. When choosing your accommodations make sure you are clear of their restrictions for size/weight, breed and amenities available for your dog. You will also want to verify any additional costs associated with having your pet travel with you. Many hotels are now offering dog-sitting and dog walking with/without additional fees. Another great resource from Dog Friendly is their 2010 Top 10 Dog-Friendly resorts http://dogfriendly.com/dognews/?p=835Wherever you chose to stay, make sure you follow some etiquette with your pet. Not everyone loves animals and may not look upon your pet as adorably as you do. When in public areas, make sure you keep your dog close to you as to ensure not just their safety, but others such as tripping over leash and etc., you may also want to consider a specialty style collar/leash to prevent your dog from any biting.When at the beach, keep your dog leased if there is a leash law. Always clean up after your dog, do not let your dog visit with other beach-goers or dogs, unless welcomed. If using an official off-leash area, your dog needs to be well-behaved and must listen to your verbal commands. In an off-leash area, always pay attention to your dog.Most of all, remember to have fun while traveling with your pet. They want to enjoy as much as you do ~ just make sure you plan ahead, be prepared and even pets like to be pampered while on vacation too.And if by chance you have to leave your pet at home, the coziest hotel trend isn’t catering to just slippers, a robe and a comfy bed, but catering to the animal lovers traveling without their pet and upping the ante for their pet lovers.In Chicago, IL, Chicago’s Hotel Burnham http://www.burnhamhotel.com/ (also a Chicago pet friendly hotel) and is one of 23 Kimpton Hotel properties that not only hands over your room key, but also lets its travelers choose whether to share their room with some of its “goldfish team members” as part of their Guppy Love program. Their staff cleans the bowl and feeds the fish for you while still cozying up your room; making this agreement nothing conforming or committing. New York City’s SoHo Grand Hotel http://www.sohogrand.com/ also runs a similar program for their guestThe Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa in Sonoma, CA http://www.fairmont.com/SMI/Zeus added Zeus, a chocolate Labrador as the Canine Ambassador of the Fairmont. Zeus oversees interactive guest appreciation at the California classic resort destination. He also keeps an eye on a multitude of lobby activities, co-leads guest hikes and assists in grounds supervision of the classic 226-room property.Catie Copley, a black Labrador at the Fairmont Copley Plaza in Boston http://www.fairmont.com/cop/CatieCopley.htm, is so popular with guests and they can sign up via e-mail to catie.Copley@fairmont.com in advance of their stay to take her on walks around town. Make sure you book early for Catie seems to get booked up!

In Beaver Creek, CO, a yellow Labrador is at the Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/BachelorGulch/Default.htm is available for hiking and snowshoeing excursions, or just playing ball with as part of the hotel's Loan-A-Lab program. He has even been incorporated into wedding ceremonies and proposals. The hotel gets its dogs from Colorado shelters, and although guests don't have to pay to book some quality canine time, they are asked to make a donation to a local animal shelter. Out of concern for guests with pet allergies, hotels don't allow staff dogs to enter their bars or restaurants. This rule applies for the luxury hotel in New York, The Algonquin http://www.algonquinhotel.com/ has a resident cat, Matilda. In addition to welcoming guests, Matilda's official mission, according to her Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/pages/Matilda-The-Algonquin-Cat/51291379554?sk=wall, is "to nap in every corner of the hotel's historic lobby." I think I like her job!At all the options available to you, your vacation with your pet or with a stand-in pet while on vacation, will leave you feeling comforted in having a four legged furry friend.

There’s something about the way it “use to be”, when we were inspired by a time where getting there was truly half the fun. I like to think that the journey must had been as exciting as the destination and time spent together was cherished and filled with conversation. It seems that if our time is now limited and we forget the journey. We are busy with “To Do List”, packing up our electronics, movies for the backseat DVD players, pre-purchased tickets, and days filled to the brim. The highways are racing with us all in a rush to get to the destination. We drive through the night, go through drive-thru and forget that there is so much beauty surrounding us. We missed the picnic at the creek with priceless pictures of children playing in the water. We didn’t have time to stop at the old diner that still believes in customer service and home cooked meals. We didn’t get to meet the locals or visit the history of what we were rushing past. Yes, there is something about the way it use to be. Life was slower, and maybe that’s why some of the stories that have been passed down through time are so much more interesting. This was our heritage and what an honor to had been part of it. Next time you get to your destination, do you still send postcards home? With the age of technology, we too often forget the beautiful handwritten note of “Wish Your Were Here”. In past reference, the first U.S. postcard came into being in 1872 and spanned a time from 1898-1918. This was a time when travelers wrote home on exquisite linen-finished, hand-tinted cards of posh resort hotels. It was also an era of global travel. People ventured to remote regions and sent exotic pictures of native people and jungle villages. “Wish You Were Here” still spans our thoughts and often our memory.So, a little trip down memory lane to make you smile along with many companies now creating the “what was old is new again”. I hope you make your journey as exiting as your destination!

How fun to take your travels on the road in a vintage trailer! I seriously am thinking this could be my home away from home . . . Even if just in my yard.

I love this photo with the old LP record player - you really will be okay without your electronics for a few hours and might even find yourself yearning for more road trips this way! If you’re like me, you’ll want to check out the portable record players at http://coolrecordplayers.com/portable_players.html especially if you’re lucky enough to have a collection of vinyl’s sitting around.

My other love . . . This Pottery Barn Found Camera with compact bodies and simple functionality, classic 35 mm cameras paved the way for both amateur photographers and professional photojournalists everywhere. The first was prototyped in Germany in 1913 and went into production as the Leica in 1924. Their collection of cameras are crafted by a variety of mid-century German and Russian manufacturers who have become vintage icons, making them perfect for display. http://www.potterybarn.com/products/found-cameras/For a new take with technology, look at the LEICA M9, a camera that carries the legend of Leica M cameras into the digital age. It is the smallest full-format digital system camera the world has ever seen. It is a contemporary tool for all who demand the highest standards in image quality and love freedom of composition. http://us.leica-camera.com/photography/m_system/m9/.

Or what about the the Rolleiflex MiniDigi AF 5.0 Digital Camera from B & H Photo Video Audio Pro http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/560571-REG/Rollei_24613_Rolleiflex_MiniDigi_AF_5_0.html with an impressively detailed miniature replica of the famous Rolleiflex 2.8F 6x6cm Twin Lens Reflex Camera. This 5.0 Megapixel digital camera preserves many of the outstanding convenience features and of course the nostalgic design elements of the original such as the Crank Action frame advance, and classic square format images that Rolleiflex Twin Lens cameras are famous for. But this up-to-date digital camera provides an auto focus feature with the capability to focus between 4 inches (10cm) to infinity, and its 1.1" LCD display allows for both Waist Level Shooting and the ability to review your images.

So, grab a book, grab a blanket, a basket filled with goods ~ even if you don’t hit the far from home road, go ahead and getaway for a few hours.Please note, items were available at the time of the writing of this article and does not guarantee they are still availableTop photograph from John Casablancas graduates

Birthday: (a) the day of a person's birth (b) a day of origin. Today is my birthday, a celebration of who I am. It’s odd how the older we get, the more we tend to look back over our life and wonder if this is where we are suppose to be? It’s always a great feeling to say. “Yes, I am exactly where I belong!” and to know that there is so much more to venture onto in life. I enjoy the simplicities of life and the little things that make me smile are many! I love to listen to the quietness of the night, the smell of fresh rain, the scent flowers and leather. I can't pass up a swing without feeling the freedom of such calmness and I have a passion in me that sometimes seem untouchable.This year has been quite an experience, and I am hopeful that the coming year will continue to bring me such graces. I came across the following quote and fell in love with it: “All those days watching from the windowsAll those years outside looking inAll that time never even knowingJust how blind I’ve beenNow I’m here, blinking in the starlightNow I’m here, suddenly I seeStanding here, it’s all so clearI’m where I’m meant to beAnd at last I see the lightAnd it’s like the fog has liftedAnd at last I see the lightAnd it’s like the sky is newAnd it’s warm and real and bright.”I will be the first to tell you . . . I really don’t like my birthday. It‘s not the aging, and I‘m not quite sure what it is, but a good celebration ~ now we’re talking. So, in all fairness, I thought I would share 44 (yes, 44) things about me and I didn‘t include my family in this list because they are without a doubt the loves of my life who without them, I would not be who I am today!I am my worst critic and always think I can do better.I really like to watch Disney movies or old cartoons when I am sick ~ they are simple and I don’t have to think. When I was growing up Charlie Chaplin was my favorite along with The Great Gatsby.I LOVE owning my own business and being able to use my creativity ~ which on the other hand, I can spend hours and hours “creating” and never tire of it (although my family often wonders when dinner might be ready).If I could hang my sheets on the clothesline every day of the year I would sleep like a baby every night.I can work most technology except the seven remotes my husband has to play our TV, DVD, VCR and stereo ~ I get just a little frustrated on that one!I love to try different food, to cook new things, create new recipes (as long as they aren't spicy) and to read recipe book by the hours.

I really want a Nook but I love the way a book smells ~ would someone create this scent to go with the e-readers, along with the feeling of sitting in a library or a book store that just can't be touched.

I use to really decorated for the holidays. I did say “use to”. I don’t feel the need to decorate 12 Christmas trees anymore.

I love to sightsee. I love to be a tourist and venture to places I’ve never been. I love to sit at outdoor cafes and people watch. To have an amazing cup of coffee and watch the world around me or a romantic dinner under a starry night is priceless. I love to venture on old cobblestone or brick-lined streets into stores that entice me to enter.

If I could have several houses, they would all be decorated differently.

Summer is my favorite season and my husband tells me I have a very small temperature range of “too cold or too hot” ~ hey, isn’t that kind of like “The Princess and The Pea”? I keep telling him I am a Princess.

Fashion ~ I can never get enough and will find a reason to purchase just because it was meant for me! I can find a reason for a party dress, a beautiful scarf, hats (oh yes please), and a girl just can't have enough purses or jewels!

I adore shoes ~ I will never have enough and would take the closet Bing built Carrie in Sex and the City any day . . . Well, I’d like the apartment too!

I am a girly-girl but have been know to do the unmentionable in the catch and discarding of snakes (not too fond of that one).

I like the outdoors ~ I just don’t like bugs - well, bug bites that is!

If I could be anywhere it would be sitting at the ocean listening to the waves and watching the world quietly pass by ~ and I am not giving up hope that someday I will have my beach house!!!

I love laughter! I love to hear it and I love to laugh until my stomach hurts and tears are rolling down my cheeks!!!

I have been know to dance at any given place and twirl around in the yard just because I can ~ what freedom!

Life is already hard and I don’t think I need a broken down car to prove it!

I love thunderstorms ~ I just want the power to stay on!

I don’t ride roller coasters or other rides but love to listen to the sounds of a fair.

I like to be organized, but in my disarray, I can still tell you that the sticky note you’re looking for is under the fourth envelope stuck to the top of last months magazine.

I love music but can’t play an instrument or sing a note ~ I wish I could!

I wish my name were something more exotic or mysterious.

I love quotes and inspiration words ~ so much that I really want a whole wall filled with them someday . . . My husband is not seeing the vision that I am though.

I am passionate and positive ~ even when life is tough.

I always over pack be it my luggage or food for a weekend away ~ I know I would survive but I really don’t want to be without just in case.

I cry at sad and touching movies. This may be the reason I like to wait and watch the movie in the comfort of my home ~ scary movies - never!

I wish I had a large family with lots of closeness and silliness.

I sometimes wish I could turn my mind off because I am always thinking and creating ~ I believe I do this even in my sleep!

I believe in people and I believe that people should believe in one another.

I do cry at weddings and funerals.

I want to learn or do something new each day.

I have a soft spot in my heart for Golden Retrievers.

I love the rush of city life but the serenity of the country.

Motivation drives me with a sense of perfection, quality and completeness.

I use to love shopping but now I really have to be in the mood for it and I despise grocery shopping ~ not sure if it’s the hurry everyone is in, the repetition or having to put it all away after I carry it in?

I am terrified to drive in the snow ~ needless to say I don’t leave the house much and am a terrible passenger during this time also.

I actually color code how I hang my clothes up ~ but at least my canned food isn’t alphabetized anymore.

I believe in love and romance!

I believe that each day is a gift and without gratitude and thanks we may end up losing what means the most.

I like to watch our gold-fish swim aimlessly in circles and still seem so happy.

I think it’s a wonderful thing to look in the mirror each day and night and really like who you are ~ I think this is important.

I am compassionate, loyal, honest and I try to fill each day doing something that is meaningful, real and simply portrays who I am.

So, with all that being said, I have to say it’s looking like a good day to sit on the swing and watch the beauty of the world around me with a gratefulness that I am part of it.

Romero Britto ~ how fun!!! Want something inspiring and uplifting, take a look at the amazing artwork at http://www.britto.com/ that is sure to make you smile!I’m so glad to share that Romero Britto is an artistic activist for charitable organizations worldwide and has quite a bio to read. Yes, I fell in love with this luggage set named A New Day http://shop.britto.com/ShopBritto/ProductDetails.aspx?ProductID=80132-09-0-0-0 - how appropriate. Although, while I am thinking of where to travel to, its price take might keep me grounded for a little while. Hovering around $1,060.00 for four pieces; averaging at approximately $265.00 a piece. But my justification . . . Hymm . . . The beauty case has an elastic strap that connects with the upright case - hence being one less case to carry and it also has a customized lining that compliments the art. The Three Spinner Cases have four smart wheels designed for amazing control and satin nickel finish handles with cushioned grips . . . And it is art!I guess even if a girl has to keep dreaming a little longer, at least it’s great to have something to look at that puts a smile on her face.

"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did so. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover."~ Mark Twain ~

After the busy weekend, I began to think about how to be inspired to another long work week? How to find a place to start where I would feel renewed and refreshed and to give me that extra push into the week? I decided to start with a little inspiration from http://moodturn.com a free site that lets you select your theme and your background all while listening to serene sounds of nature. So now I am in a relaxed state, but how to find the renewal of time? With busy schedules, chores to be done, commitments, work, running and too many more to list, how do you find time for you? Sometimes a vacation isn’t necessarily always packing your bag, but finding a place where you can renew yourself on a day-to-day basis, a respite from your repetitive duties. We all need a break, but too often we say “I’m too busy” ~ even more reason to schedule some “you” time. We’ve all heard about Staycations; vacationing at home. What about Daily Staycations? Here are some ideas to recharge and renew yourself on a daily basis. Learn to take a break by taking a long, relaxing bath ~ turn off your phone, light some candles, put on some music and just soak your stress away. Give yourself an at home facial, a pedicure or a manicure. Read a book. Go for a walk, a run, a bike ride, or any type of exercise. Wake-up before everyone and have some quiet time without the daily news or radio and just listen to the silence. Treat yourself to lunch out with or without friends, pack up a picnic, go sit at the park and enjoy the sights around you. Fly a kite. Go fishing. Pick up a new hobby and let yourself enjoy a little bit of creative time. On those lazy days, put in your favorite old movie, grab a blanket, some favorite indulgences to munch on and just relish in the moment. Go walk around your town and be your own tourist. Take your camera and see your world through a different angle. Without taking time for yourself, we often burnout and find ourselves stressed and overwhelmed. Too often we deny ourselves little indulgences because it may seem selfish or too time consuming. Sometimes just that little bit of time is what we need. I like to have a glass of wine, sit under the stars on a quiet summers night and just listen. This is my time. I find that in our busy world, these moments of nothingness is restful and it relaxes the soul.When I do get the opportunity to take longer me time, there are so many options to chose from. A day at the spa, a little retail therapy, a drive to the lake, an overnight trip to a neighboring town, visiting a Farmer’s Market, buying flowers just for me, just because. Go for a horseback ride, visit your local museum or art galleries. Treat yourself to a self-indulgent road trip; traveling to places you’ve yearned to visit. Sometimes taking time for yourself doesn’t always mean you have to be by yourself. Enjoy time with your spouse, your friends, but just remember it’s about you and not accommodating everyone else. Relish, renew and relax. It’s a guarantee that if you let yourself enjoy, you just may find a new sense of being.

About MeI'm Amy ~ Owner/CEO of TWIG TRAVEL & EVENTS. Creating my business was probably more fun than work due to my intense love of travel, weddings and any type of celebration . . . just some of my many obsessions."I believe in manicures. I believe in overdressing. I believe in primping at leisure and wearing lipstick. I believe in pink. I believe laughing is the best calorie burner. I believe in kissing, kissing a lot. I believe in being strong when everything seems to be going wrong. I believe happy girls are the prettiest girls. I believe that tomorrow is another day, and I believe in miracles."

My indulgences are many, but other than travel, I love creating, planning ~ be it travel or a beautiful dinner party. I hold close to my heart ~ my family, our dogs, fashion, crème brulle, quotes, writing, laughter and listening to it rain. You'll most likely find me sitting on the ocean with my toes dug in the sand in my free time just listening to the ocean waves. I hope you enjoy and become inspired of all the places to see and things to do!

Disclaimer ~ The content on this site, unless specified, is my work. I will always try to give credit and/links back to the site it was found in.